Dr. Catherine Bergeret-Galley

Catherine Bergeret-Galley is one of the few female plastic surgeons in Paris. She is married, with three children. Dr. Bergeret Galley is passionate about her work in plastic and reconstructive surgery. "Enhancing, and making patients more attractive is my goal. I take the time to listen to their deepest concerns, to evaluate the defect they are worried about and often see as a handicap. I want to enhance the lives of my patients.

I started training as a plastic surgeon during my internship in 1984, first in general surgery, then specializing in cervico facial surgery, microsurgery, plastic and reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, both in France and in the United States." More...

Address: 36 rue Penthièvre, 75008, Paris
Telephone: +33(0)1 42 89 62 02

NEWS:

EAR SURGERY (OTOPLASTY)

Ear surgery (Otoplasty) is the surgical correction of prominent ears. The procedure is quite common, simple and covered by French medical insurance for children. Surgery can be done as of the age of six, but it can be done before should the child be traumatized by the condition, particularly from teasing at school.

The ear surgery procedure

The precautions of the otoplasty

In adults, patients must avoid aspirin related medication for the fifteen days prior to the operation.

The operation

Surgery lasts two or three hours. If the child is young, the surgeon may recommend general anesthesia, so the child will sleep through the operation. For older children or adults, the surgeon may prefer using local anesthesia, combined with a sedative, so you or your child will be awake but relaxed. Hospitalization will last several hours or maybe a night.

The surgeon makes a small incision in the back of the ear to expose the ear cartilage. He or she will then sculpt the cartilage and bend it back toward the head. Surgery will leave a faint scar behind the ear which will fade with time.

Postoperative care

The patient may feel a small amount of pain for 48 hours following surgery, but this can be relieved by medication. The patient's head will be wrapped in a bulky bandage for a couple of days immediately following surgery to promote the best moulding and healing. It will then be replaced by a lighter version similar to a headband. A protective bandage will then be wrapped around the ears overnight for three weeks. A band is put around the head for 3 weeks at night to protect the ears. The use of a firm pillow is recommended. Particular attention should be paid to changes in temperature because of reduced sensitivity which will last several weeks during the healing period.

The complications of an ear surgery

As with any surgery, complications are possible but extremely rare (hematoma, infections, anesthesia problems).

The results of an otoplasty

Like rhinoplasty, most patients, especially children, gain in self-confidence and are thrilled with the results, which will become totally apparent after six months.